Fatal bear attack near Bella Coola was only about 3 kilometres from last year’s attack

Nuxalk Nation CEO Terry Weber says a fatal bear attack near Bella Coola this week was only about 3 kilometres away from a similar attack last year.

That one saw a group of elementary school children attacked with three sent to hospital.

This week’s attack claimed the lives of 48 year-old Jennifer Balcarras and her daughter, 20 year-old Selah Reed.

Conservation Officers say the investigation is in the early stages but they haven’t ruled out the possibility of the same bear being responsible for both.

They also aren’t sure how many bears were involved.

Traps have been set, but none have been captured so far.

Officers are asking everyone to avoid the Snooka West Trail, and the Nuxalk Nation is recommending an 8 PM curfew.

The Nation is making supports available for members by calling 250 799 5613.

School District 49 cancelled all classes in the Valley yesterday, and will be letting students out early today.